Are you an avid climber in need of a functional chalk bag that can also carry your essentials like cash and keys? Look no further! In this DIY guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to create your own chalk bag with integrated pockets, perfect for your climbing adventures. For this project, we’ll be upcycling an old pair of jeans, but feel free to use any sturdy fabric of your choice.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need:
- Outer fabric for your chalk bag (old jeans, cargo pants, or any sturdy fabric)
- Lining fabric (fleece or soft material for chalk stickiness)
- Cord/elastic for cinching the bag
- Cord stop and large eyelet for cord/elastic
Step 2: Cut Fabric for Outer Cylinder
Start by cutting a rectangle from your outer fabric, roughly 7″ x 13″. If using old jeans, you can integrate the waistband into your design. If making a standard chalk bag, any sturdy fabric will do.
Step 3: Cut Fabric for Inner Cylinder
Cut a piece of lining fabric slightly larger than your outer fabric. For example, if not using a separate binding, cut it to be 1/2″ taller than your outer fabric (7.5″ x 13″). Adjust accordingly if using binding.
Step 4: Sew Outer Cylinder
Fold the outer fabric in half, right sides together, and sew along the side seam. Turn it right side out.
Step 5: Cut Fabric for Bottom Pieces
Trace a circle slightly larger than the circumference of your outer cylinder onto both your outer and lining fabrics. Cut out these circular bottom pieces.
Step 6: Sew Pieces Together
Attach the bottom circular piece to the outer cylinder and lining separately, ensuring they are inside out during sewing.
Step 7: Add the Eyelet
Cut a small hole in the outer shell and hammer in a large eyelet, roughly 1.5″ down from the top of the bag.
Step 8: Add the Cord
Sew a loop for the cord on the lining, opposite the eyelet. Thread the cord through the loop twice, then through the eyelet, ensuring it cinches evenly.
Step 9: Finish Top Edge
Fold and sew the top edge of the bag. If using binding, sew a strip of fabric or nylon ribbon around the edge for a clean finish.
Step 10: Add Cord Stop, and Finished!
Thread the loose cord ends through the cord stop and tie them securely. Your chalk bag with integrated pockets is ready for your climbing adventures!
With these steps, you can create a customized chalk bag that meets your climbing needs while giving new life to old fabrics. Enjoy your crafting and happy climbing!
